Mara Naboisho Conservancy Tours & Safaris

Mara Naboisho Conservancy

Mara Naboisho Conservancy is a pristine, community-managed wildlife conservancy located in the southwestern region of Kenya, adjacent to the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve. Covering an area of about 50,000 acres, this conservancy offers visitors a unique, exclusive safari experience in one of Africa's most iconic landscapes. The conservancy was established in 2010 as a partnership between the local Maasai community and wildlife conservationists, and it is renowned for its commitment to sustainable conservation and community empowerment.

Unlike the Maasai Mara Reserve, which can get crowded with tourists, Mara Naboisho offers a more intimate and serene safari experience. It’s home to a diverse range of wildlife and ecosystems, with savannah plains, forested riverbanks, and rolling hills that provide a picturesque backdrop for safaris. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and cultural interactions with the Maasai people, making it a perfect blend of nature and culture.

Wildlife

Mara Naboisho Conservancy is a haven for wildlife, hosting a wide array of species, some of which are rare or endangered. The conservancy is particularly famous for its high density of predators, including:

• Big Cats: Lions, cheetahs, and leopards are frequently seen here, with the area being known for its large prides of lions.
• Elephants: The conservancy also has a healthy population of African elephants that roam freely within the area.
• Buffalo and Giraffes: These iconic African species are also commonly spotted.
• Zebras, Antelopes, and Wildebeest: The plains are teeming with various antelope species such as Thomson’s gazelle, impalas, and wildebeest.
• Endangered Species: The area is home to endangered species such as the African wild dog and the black rhino, both of which are protected in the conservancy.

The diverse ecosystems, including grasslands, acacia forests, and riverbanks, attract both herbivores and carnivores, ensuring a balanced and thriving ecosystem.

Birds

Mara Naboisho Conservancy is also a bird watcher’s paradise. With over 300 species of birds, the conservancy offers excellent opportunities for birding enthusiasts. Some notable species include:

• Secretary Birds: Known for their unique hunting style, this bird is often seen in the area.
• Vultures: The conservancy is home to several vulture species, often seen near predator kills.
• Lilac-breasted Roller: A colorful and iconic bird of Africa, often spotted perched on tree branches.
• African Fish Eagle: Found near the river and lakes within the conservancy.
• Crowned Crane: A striking bird often spotted in the wetlands and grasslands.

The diverse range of habitats supports both migratory and resident bird species, making it a prime spot for bird watching throughout the year.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Mara Naboisho Conservancy depends on the type of experience you are seeking:

• Dry Season (June to October): This period is considered the best for game viewing as the wildlife tends to gather around water sources. The animals are easier to spot since the vegetation is thinner, and the weather is more predictable.
• Green Season (November to May): This time of year, when the conservancy receives the most rainfall, transforms the landscape into a lush paradise. It is a great time for bird watchers, as migratory species flock to the area. However, some roads may become impassable due to rain.

For those looking to witness the Great Migration (typically between July and October), this is also an optimal time to visit, as wildebeests and zebras move through the Maasai Mara ecosystem, and predators follow them.

Weather & Climate

Mara Naboisho Conservancy experiences a tropical savannah climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The weather conditions vary throughout the year:

• Dry Season (June to October): During this time, temperatures are warm with daytime highs ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Nighttime temperatures can drop to 10°C (50°F), especially in June and July. The weather is mostly sunny, with little to no rainfall.
• Wet Season (November to May): Rainfall is more frequent during these months, with November and April receiving the heaviest rains. Daytime temperatures remain warm, ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while nights can be cool, especially during the wettest months of March and April. Occasional showers occur, with thunderstorms more common in the afternoons.

How To Get There

Mara Naboisho Conservancy is easily accessible from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. There are several ways to get there:

• By Air: The easiest way to access the conservancy is by flying directly into one of the nearby airstrips. Scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Naboisho Airstrip take about 45 minutes. Charter flights can also be arranged.

• By Road: For those who prefer a road safari, it’s about a 5-6 hour drive from Nairobi to the conservancy. The route takes you through the Great Rift Valley and offers scenic views of the African countryside. It’s advisable to travel in a 4x4 vehicle due to the rough terrain, especially during the rainy season.

Once in the conservancy, guests are typically picked up by their accommodation’s vehicles for game drives and other activities.

Health & Safety

• Vaccinations: It’s recommended to get vaccinations for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A before traveling to Kenya. Malaria prophylaxis is also advisable, as the area is in a malaria zone.
• Travel Insurance: It’s always a good idea to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation in case of emergencies.
• Safety During Game Drives: While safaris in Mara Naboisho are relatively safe, it’s important to follow the guidance of experienced guides and rangers during game drives and walking safaris. Staying inside the vehicle during game drives is crucial for safety.
• Water and Food Safety: Only drink bottled or purified water during your stay, and ensure that food is prepared hygienically to avoid any health issues.

FAQs

1. Is Mara Naboisho Conservancy safe for tourists?
Yes, the conservancy is generally safe. It is managed by professional rangers and guides who ensure visitor safety during all activities.

2. Can I visit Mara Naboisho on a budget?
Mara Naboisho is a more exclusive and upscale destination, and the accommodation options are generally high-end. However, you may find some mid-range options depending on the time of year.

3. Are there any cultural experiences in the conservancy?
Yes, visitors can experience cultural interactions with the local Maasai community. These experiences include visits to Maasai villages, learning about their traditional way of life, and witnessing cultural dances and ceremonies.

4. Is the conservancy wheelchair accessible?
Some accommodations and lodges in Mara Naboisho may be accessible, but it is advisable to confirm accessibility with the property before booking. Safari activities may be challenging for those with mobility restrictions.

5. What other activities can I do apart from game drives?
Apart from game drives, Mara Naboisho Conservancy offers walking safaris, bush picnics, and cultural tours with the Maasai people. Photographic safaris and hot-air balloon rides can also be arranged for a more unique experience.

6. Is Wi-Fi available in the conservancy?
Some luxury lodges in Mara Naboisho may provide Wi-Fi, but it’s important to note that the internet may be limited or slower due to the remote location. The conservancy is about immersing in nature and disconnecting from the digital world.